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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Swimming Programs for Infants or Toddlers
DESCRIPTION
Swim classes for children under the age of 3 years (even
under age 1) have become popular in some regions of the U.S.
Advocates claim a variety of benefits, such as swimming
skills, water safety, health, and fun.
Water play is good exercise. However, the American Academy
of Pediatrics questions the success of these swim classes in
helping an infant or toddler survive an accidental fall into
water.
WHY MOST PEDIATRICIANS ARE OPPOSED TO INFANT OR TODDLER SWIM
PROGRAMS
- If your child is pushed or hurried, he may develop a fear
of water. If your child screams or is afraid during any
type of water program, discontinue it temporarily.
- If someone is not holding your child and she happens to
go underwater, she can inhale enough water in the first
10 seconds to cause symptoms of near drowning.
- Swallowed pool water can be dangerous. If a child
swallows too much water, the concentration of salt in the
body can be lowered to a dangerous level and may cause
seizures. Avoid infant programs that encourage
submersion of the head for more than a few seconds.
- Even if your child can be taught how to swim, he cannot
learn to save himself. Children are not able to
understand the basic elements of water safety before they
are 4 years old. Don't let your child's ability to
dog-paddle give you a false sense of security. Adult
supervision is essential when your child is around water.
WATER FUN
If you want to acquaint your infant or toddler with water,
do so in a wading pool and concentrate on having fun, not
learning how to swim. Infant water programs held in pools
should also teach water fun.
You can enroll your youngster in true swimming lessons at
the age of 4 or 5 years. If you have already taught your
child to enjoy the water, she may learn to swim quickly.
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